France has long been a firm favourite holiday destination for travellers from the UK, due not only to its close proximity and accessibility. The country’s natural beauty, history, culture, weather and of course fantastic French golf courses are the reasons for the attraction and popularity. Golf in France is exquisite; the country is adorned with manicured golf courses and sensational resorts. Golf Travel Centre recommend that on your golf break to France, you take advantage of the affordable green fees, spectacular courses, beautiful resorts delicious food and fun filled après golf. More
Golf in France
French golfing history dates back to 1856 with the opening of not only the first golf course in France, but the first course in mainland Europe, at Pau golf course. The popularity of golf in France was down to the influence of English golfers looking for some sun and golf breaks in France are now more popular for UK travellers than ever. With some of the best golf Europe has to offer, there are a wealth of superb golf courses to choose from with the post-game activities being just as entertaining.
Golf in France is diverse and exciting. French courses are notorious for being a challenge to golfers of all abilities and their stunning surroundings make for a truly magical day on the fairways. France’s culture, history, scenery and cuisine make for a wonderful golfing getaway weekend, even for the non-golfers of the group. With a wealth of things to see and do, a France golf break offers something for everyone. From beautiful Mediterranean shores to quaint countryside towns a golf trip to France is an unparalleled experience.
Our top picks for golf in France
Golf Travel Centre has an excellent range of golf packages and breaks that can be tailored specifically to your requirements. Whether you’re looking to get away with friends or spend some quality time with your family, see below for some of our favourite spots for a golf holiday in France:
Best golf courses in France
The weather in France varies across the country, meaning that there is always an opportunity to play golf somewhere. Much like the UK, the northern regions of France are generally cold in the winter and mild in the summer, whereas along the Mediterranean sea and the South West of France, winters are often mild and the summers are hot. July is the hottest month in France where average temperatures reach 20 C across the country. The coldest month is January with average temperatures being 5 C. To avoid these extremes, while getting maximum daylight, the best times to play golf in France are the ‘shoulder months’ of March-May and September-November. During this time you can enjoy some of the best weather in France while avoiding the busiest periods. Course rates are likely to be lower and clubs and resorts are likely to have more availability at these times.
Travel to France from the UK has never been easier with the options to fly, travel by ferry or train.Just a hop away, the transport option you choose to use will depend on your priorities and the type of trip you’re planning. If you want to take your own clubs, or the whole family, it may make sense to drive and take the ferry. If you’re heading to the South coast of France, flying will save time leaving you with more time to enjoy your trip. If you’re travelling with a big group, getting the train might be the more practical and cheaper option.
France has quality golf courses in every corner of the country so, finding a resort or area to head to can be a daunting task. Depending on your priorities we’ve picked out some of our favourite areas for our favourite activities: For golf and la dolce vita head down to Provence or Côte d’Azur. The South is an obvious choice as this area is known for style and luxury. It boasts some of the best weather in France all year round leaving you with even more options and flexibility for your trip. For golf and beautiful views why not try Brittany and the Alps. Brittany and the surrounding area offer golf with a touch of the rural. Based in traditional market towns and stunning agricultural settings, the area has a temperate climate making it perfect for a UK visitor not ready for blazing hot sunshine. For golf and fine dining your best bet is Bordeaux or the Basque country. These areas are warm in the summer and home to a number of little known golfing locations. With Bordeaux at its centre and hundreds of chalets in the area you won’t be short of choices for food and drink to top off a perfect day of golf. For golf and a real taste of French culture check out the Loire Valley or the areas around Paris. In this region, be sure to eat like a king in Paris city centre, indulge in the museum visits and tick off all the famous sights while still fitting in a game of golf in the surrounding countryside.